J&K: Well-stocked terror hideout found in Kishtwar, points to local support

A well-equipped kitchen and hideout allegedly used by terrorists in the dense forests of Chhatru area in Kishtwar district was unearthed by the Army on Monday, a day after an encounter in which a soldier was killed.The hideout was detected during a search operation launched to track down Pakistani terrorists involved in the encounter. Security personnel found a makeshift kitchen constructed with stones and concealed under tarpaulin, indicating that the terrorists had established a long-term base in the area.The structure had multiple entry and exit points, designed to facilitate quick escape in the event of a surprise raid. Several blankets were found spread on the floor, suggesting that the hideout was also being used for shelter.Troops were surprised by the quantity and variety of supplies recovered from the site. The kitchen was stocked with ration items, including rice, wheat flour, spices, instant noodles, eggs and vegetables. A three-burner gas stove and gas cylinders were also recovered, pointing to advance planning and preparation for the winter months.Security forces also found partially cooked eggs in a utensil, leading to the belief that the terrorists were preparing food when they noticed the movement of troops nearby and retaliated by hurling grenades, injuring eight Army personnel during the encounter.Officials said the recovery highlighted the logistical support network available to terrorists infiltrating from across the border, as access to gas cylinders and local ration would not have been possible without local assistance.The hideout-cum-kitchen was built on a slope amid thick forest cover and was not visible from a distance, further underscoring the planning involved in setting up the facility. Clothing, including woollens and shoes, was also recovered from the site, and all items were seized by the Army. Security forces said operations were continuing in the area to neutralise the terrorists, who are now believed to be without access to food and water.In a related development, a joint team of the Army and police recently busted three terrorist hideouts in the Billawar area of Kathua district, where two encounters had taken place earlier. Essential supplies, including food and clothing, were recovered from those sites as well.

J&K: Well-stocked terror hideout found in Kishtwar, points to local support

Arjun Sharma

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